To make a rational choice, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the many nuances in the automotive industry, determining the price category of the desired vehicle, making sure of its reliability by studying the pedigree of the car. This article will focus on cars under the "Citroen" brand, since many are interested in the country of the vehicle manufacturer, which, according to consumers, predetermines the quality indicators of the model. Many are aware that Citroen has a lot of factories almost all over the world, including in Russia. This nuance forces car owners to figure out whose country of origin and where directly, interesting to the buyer as a purchase. Let's try to answer in the article the most popular questions from potential buyers and car owners interested in this topic.

Location of Citroen car factories.

Positions in the sales market and popularity of the Citroen brand

Citroen cars occupy a worthy position in the Russian market, although they are not the favorites of sales. The fact is that the company, which has French roots and almost a century of history, differs from many automakers in the absence of an assertive focus on gaining world recognition and leadership positions. This tactic of the concern allows it to deal with more global and promising tasks aimed at expanding its activities, improving and modernizing technologies. The manufacturer adheres to, despite a wide location spread of factories, certain principles and standards that allow it to retain its audience of buyers and admirers, gradually updating and modernizing the model range of cars, developing and releasing competitive goods on European expanses. The fundamental principles of the company, without which the manufacturer could not compete in the market for a whole century, are the following features of the activity:

1. Maintaining high-quality technologies for the manufacture and design of vehicles, regardless of the location of the plant.
2. Mandatory control of each of the cars produced under the Citroen brand through an automated scheme that has been established over a long period of operation, which determines high-quality features and technological guarantees for transport, regardless of the criterion where it was assembled.
3. The most important components and assemblies that are significant for the functioning of the car are produced directly by the French plant, which predetermines increased control of the quality features of Citroen products.
4. The work on the manufacture of transport products by highly qualified engineers, as well as their informational cooperation with leading companies in the automotive industry, ensures that Citroen products comply with world standards.

This information allows potential buyers to cast aside doubts about the possibility of purchasing a low-quality product, since the manufacturer guarantees durability, reliability, compliance with international standards of all products bearing the Citroen brand, regardless of the criterion whose assembly of a particular instance.

Locations of branches and pedigree of popular models from Citroen

The total number of factories where Citroen vehicles are currently assembled, whose production was previously established only in France, totals several dozen. The main ones are localized in African and Latin American countries, Europe, China and on the territory of the Russian Federation. As for the most popular models supplied to the European automotive markets, the C4 Aircross, which is exclusively assembled in French factories, has received the greatest respect and recognition. The production of this model is planned in the near future directly at the plant in Kaluga, however, this project is still only in a promising concept. If everything is very clear with the territorial origin of the Aircross model, then regarding the C4 series, the answer to the question of which country is the manufacturer of a particular car is not so unambiguous.

Cars from the Citroen C4 model range, produced before 2012, have 100% French roots, however, cars of a later production could be assembled at other plants of the concern. Since 2013, their manufacture has been taking place at the Kaluga plant: there are still disputes about the quality of the assembly of these cars, however, experts say that the Citroen plant in Kaluga is equipped with a modified, modern technological base, therefore, vehicles that rolled off the assembly line in Russia , in quality they are absolutely not inferior to the French copies. In 2018, from the beginning of the year in Russia, at the Citroen plant, the assembly of the Jumpy Multispace minibus began, with an increased interior space, which predetermines its great future. This model will be assembled exclusively on the territory of Russia. Citroen Berlingo is another model from the manufacturer that is extremely popular with consumers. The car is assembled at factories in Spain, Turkey and Belarus, and its working potential and promising capabilities make it possible to compete in the market with vehicles of this category from leading car manufacturers.

The sedan from Citroen C-Elysse, actively offered in the automotive markets of the Russian Federation, is distinguished by its excellent build quality, excellent design and simple modification engines. The model has proven itself perfectly in terms of adaptability to Russian climatic and operational features, which provokes the car's popularity and demand among domestic consumers. The advantageous quality of this model is its price, which does not exceed five hundred thousand rubles in the basic version, which positions the C-Elysse as an affordable vehicle for consumers in the budget category. in Spain, at an enterprise in the city of Vigo.

Perspective perspective of the company and objective forecasts of experts

The Citroen concern at the present time is far from prosperous, the financial problems of the automaker put it in the position of unrespectable objects for investment. This fact makes the leaders of the concern look for ways to solve financial problems based on their personal capabilities. To increase the ability to stay in trend, the corporation is actively promoting its C4-based models, working towards expanding the sales market for its automotive products. In parallel, the company is actively promoting models based on the C5, which saves financial costs, with the parallel possibility of expanding the model range. Despite such a precarious financial position of the corporation, certain positive aspects are visible in its current functionality:

1. The company promptly develops and launches into production new, improved budget-class cars, with a priority opportunity to improve the financial condition through turnover.
2. The organization, despite certain problems, competes with leading car manufacturers at various exhibitions and presentations, which positions it on a positive side, increases consumer confidence.
3. Active cooperation with leading manufacturers, the conclusion of lucrative contracts allows Citroen to provide the markets with inexpensive and high-quality developments that are in demand among budget consumers.
4. A competent approach to design development of models allows Citroen cars to remain at their best.
5. Citroen is evolving to keep up with innovation, offering consumers modern vehicles that, if the circumstances are right, will help the concern survive financial difficulties and rise to higher positions.

The concern has project plans that shine a great future in the automotive industry, however, in order to translate them into reality, the corporation needs decent funding. At the present time, it is difficult for the company to cope with the exit from the financial crisis, although the positive tendencies of the automaker, the desire to develop, against the background of the lack of savings on the quality of goods, suggest that the company is able to cope with the problems and take a promising position in the automotive market.

Let's sum up

Citroen, despite the difficulties of the financial category, has prospects for development, thanks to the well-coordinated work of leading engineers, branches, and the release of extremely competitive products. The manufacturer claims that, regardless of the criteria, whose car is on the market, which branches were engaged in assembling it, the quality parameters and technological attributes of the vehicles are fully observed. Each car produced under the Citroen brand meets international quality standards, which determines its long period of operation, provided that the car owner observes the basic requirements of the manufacturer.

1910

1919

Creativity. Technologies. Courage. In 1919, André Citroën founded the brand of the same name ...

1919

Citroën "Model A"

The Type A, with a 1327 cc four-cylinder engine and a top speed of 65 km / h, goes on sale.

1920

1920

Having been on the market for just one year, Citroen manages to sell 10,000 vehicles

20 February 1921

Always one step ahead. On February 20, 1921, Citroen unveils a series of enamelled road signs for French roads.

12 July 1921

Citroen presents the 2nd car in the model range: B2. Compared to Type A, this is a more powerful and technologically advanced car.

01 October 1922

Paris Motor Show: world presentation of the Citroen 5HP. A new compact car based on the Type A.

12 October 1922

Bold creativity ... For the first time, in honor of the opening of the 7th Paris Motor Show, an airplane writes the brand name in the sky. This is Paris! This is Citroen!

17 December 1922

To highlight the quality of his tracked vehicles, launched in 1922, André Citroën decides to send them across the Sahara. Georges-Marie Haardt and Louis Audouin-Dubreuil embark on the Tuggourt-Timbuktu-Tuggourt expedition, which lasts from December 17, 1922 to March 7, 1923.

1924

In 1924, Citroen's production reached 50,000 cars a year.

01 October 1924

Citroen unveils the B10, the first all-metal vehicle to replace metal and wood models.

28 October 1924

Expedition "Black Raid" in Africa

Inspired by the success of the Sahara expedition two years earlier, Citroen is equipping the Black Raid expedition to cross the entire African continent from Colombes Béchar to Cape Town from October 28, 1924 to June 26, 1925.

1925

Official statistics on the number of cars per capita

In 1926, about a third of the cars on the roads in France are Citroen cars.

28 September 1926

Citroen unveils the B14, a mass-market vehicle that combines luxury features. It was one of the most popular vehicles during the interwar period. Citroen is also introducing the B15, the first French commercial vehicle with an enclosed cockpit.

1926

Citroen publishes the first repair manual with a spare parts catalog for the dealer network.

1926

By this time, Citroen employs 31,000 workers and produces 400 vehicles a day - a record production capacity in Europe.

21 May 1927

Charles Lindbergh at the Citroen factory in 1927

Charles Lindbergh, who made the first transatlantic flight, visits the Citroen factory

01 October 1928

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents two new models, the C4 and C6.

1929

Launch of Citroen C6 1 production in 1929

Launch of France's first high-speed truck, the C61. Payload: 1800 kg, 6-cylinder engine, 42 hp Steel enclosed cabin

16 March 1929

Inauguration of the legendary Marbeuf garage. An architectural masterpiece that will pave the way for the brand's other iconic locations.

01 October 1929

Demonstrating once again his character as a pioneer, André Citroën opens the doors of his factory on the Quai Javel to the public on the occasion of the opening of the Paris Motor Show

1930

04 April 1931

"Yellow raid" in Asia

Five years after the "Black Raid" expedition "Yellow Raid" is organized. This time the Citroen company does not recognize any intends to cross the Asian continent from Beirut to Beijing.

October 1931

André Citroën returns from the United States with new ideas, one of which involves the use of a resilient suspension engine - an idea that has contributed to the modernization of cars.
This innovative technology mitigates vibration from the engine by installing rubber blocks between the engine and the chassis.

April 1932

Resilient suspension engine Citroen

The C4 G and C6 G cars get a resilient suspension engine called MFP (Moteur Floating Power). Citroen is once again outperforming its European competitors. Now all Citroen cars, without exception, are equipped with a resilient suspension engine.

October 1932

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents Rosalie cars: 8CV, 10CV and 15CV. The first two models replaced the C4, and the third with a six-cylinder engine replaced the C6.
In 1931, thanks to a series of new speed records at the Linas-Montleri circuit, all three models quickly earned the nickname "Rosalie".

27 July 1933

Montleri Circuit 300,000 km. 134 days. average speed 93 km / h. This is a new world record set by the Petite Rosalie (8CV).

18 April 1934

Innovation. Security. Comfort. Efficiency. Citroen is introducing the all-new "Type 7A", featuring front-wheel drive, frameless monobloc steel body, hydraulic brakes on four wheels, independent torsion bar suspension, resilient overhead valve engine and removable cylinder liners ...

01 October 1934

New Traction at the Paris Motor Show: 11. Based on the body of the Model 7, extended by 14 cm and lengthened by 20 cm. This model has a 46 hp engine. and a 3-speed gearbox with speeds up to 106 km / h.

12 December 1934

The launch of the Traction Avant model does not solve the company's serious financial difficulties, and the company is unable to meet its financial obligations. At that time, Citroen is the leading national as well as European car manufacturer and is the second in the world. At the request of the government, Michelin, the main creditor, is writing off the company's debts and putting Citroen back on its feet. Citroen continues to operate under Michelin control.

03 July 1935

As a result of a serious illness, Andre Citroen died. Pierre Boulanger becomes the CEO of the company.

1936

Pierre Boulanger launches the project of the popular subcompact car, the future 2CV. Its technical characteristics say: "A car designed to carry four people and 50 kg of potatoes, reaching a speed of up to 60 km / h, with a consumption of 3 liters of gasoline per 100 km, which should provide a comfortable ride."

October 1936

Citroen unveils the 11 MI with a diesel engine at the Paris Motor Show. It is the world's first passenger production model with a diesel engine.

12 January 1938

First road tests of the TPV (subcompact) prototype that will become the famous 2CV.

01 October 1938

Citroën traction avant 15 CV

The Traction Avant family expands with the 15-Six. Spacious, comfortable, fast car (135 km / h), easy to drive. With its excellent roadholding, the 15-Six is \u200b\u200bquickly becoming the Queen of the Road.

April 1939

Citroen launches the TUB, a B-Series commercial vehicle with a modern design, extended cab and sliding side loading door.

23 August 1939

The French test department registers the 2CV and is now ready to debut on the market.

1940

03 June 1940

Citroen's plant on the Javelle embankment comes under bombardment. Factory staff dismantle and hide undamaged 2CV prototypes. Due to the occupation, production practically stops.

1941

Due to the lack of fuel, Citroën decides not to suffer losses and offers new alternatives to ensure the mobility of its customers.

1942

1942

The second bombing of the plant on the Javel embankment, production facilities were seriously damaged.

06 November 1944

The first Citroen truck

Following appropriate action, Citroën launches its first truck at the Javelle Quay plant a year after the bombing.

1945

The plant on the Zhavel embankment has been restored. Citroën manages to respond quickly to increasing demands. Production reaches 13.4% of its pre-war level.

1946

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE

In France, the restoration process is in full swing. Half of Citroën's cars are commercial vehicles.

01 October 1946

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën is unveiling three new models: the 11 B, known as the "11 normale" (standard model), the 11 BL known as the "11 Légère" (lightweight model), and the 15-sixG.

June 1947

First presentation of the Type H. Company President Pierre Boulanger announces the technical specifications: a front-wheel drive single-volume vehicle that will adapt the features of the four-cylinder Traction Avant with reinforced rear suspension. The main goal is to maximize the use of parts of other cars of the company.

07 October 1948

Citroen 2CV presentation

Finally, the 2CV is presented to the public and to the President of the Republic, Vincent Oriol, at the Paris Motor Show. This model surprises with its unusual appearance and expresses a new philosophy of personal transport. It will be released in various versions with a circulation of more than 5 million copies until July 27, 1990.

October 1949

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën unveils the Type HZ, a small van with a payload of 850 kg, capable of speeds up to 88 km / h.

1950

October 1950

Inspired by the success of the 2CV model, the line to buy which lined up 6 years ahead, Citroen at the Paris Motor Show presents to the public a modification of the van: payload 250 kg, 375 cm3 engine with a maximum speed of 60 km / h and a fuel consumption of 5 liters per 100 km ...

11 November 1950

Pierre Boulanger, CEO of Citroen, passed away at the age of 65 (born 10 March 1885)

1951

The Citroen 15 CV becomes the official vehicle of the French authorities.

March 1951

Start of production of the 2CV van; the production of this car will be over 1.2 million copies in the period up to March 1978.

June 1952

To meet the needs of its customers, Citroen is extending the rear of the Tractions Avant to double the boot capacity.

1953

Citroen Type 55 commercial vehicle

The Type 55 commercial vehicle replaces the Type 45. Gasoline and diesel engines, 76 hp, 5,000 kg payload with a gross vehicle weight of 9,300 kg. There is also a 55 UADI bus with a 6-cylinder diesel engine for 29 seats.

May 1954

Citroen 15 six

The 15-Six has a fixed height hydropneumatic suspension at the rear. A real technical breakthrough from the Citroen design bureau.

20 July 1955

Completion of production of the 15-Six after a 23-year career.

06 October 1955

Citroen DS at the Paris Motor Show

A technical and aesthetic revolution at the Paris Motor Show. Citroen unveils the DS, a sci-fi car. Original design, avant-garde trim, hydropneumatic suspension and fully hydraulic steering. 750 cars were sold in just 45 minutes, 12,000 the next day and 80,000 before the show closed.

1955

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1956)

Appearance of the ID 19 model in the model range. Available in the Standard version (63 hp, 4000 rpm and 130 km / h) and the Lux version (66 hp, 4500 rpm and 135 km / h).

May 1957

Appearance of the ID 19 model in the model range. Available in the Standard version (63 hp, 4000 rpm and 130 km / h) and the Lux version (66 hp, 4500 rpm and 135 km / h).

July 1957

Complete completion of production of the Traction Avant with over 750,000 units produced.

March 1958

Presentation of 2CV 4x4 vehicles, also known as 2CV Sahara. This four-wheel drive vehicle with two 425 cm3 engines has an increased cross-country ability: it is able to climb sandy slopes with a slope of more than 40% with full load.

09 October 1958

In honor of the founder of the company, the Javelle embankment receives the name Andre Citroen embankment.

1959

Pioneer. Citroen is invited to exhibit the DS car body at an international exhibition of design art, chaired by architect Giovanni Gio Ponti, at the Triennale in Milan.

1959

Winning ID 19 at the Monte Carlo Rally with the Colteloni-Alexandre-Derozier crew. As a result, Citroen decides to participate in various car competitions.

1960

01 October 1960

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen unveils the DS 19 convertible with a body from Henri Chapron. This car has the widest range of options for personalization: 76 color combinations, 13 body colors and 11 shades of leather trim on the upholstery!

1960

Opening of a plant in the suburbs of Rennes (Brittany). With state-of-the-art equipment and automation, the plant is designed to produce 1,200 vehicles per day. This is Citroen's first full-cycle plant.

24 April 1961

Launching Ami 6 on the same day across Europe. Ami 6 has expanded the range; its main differences were the pronounced lines of the body and the rear concave glass.

22 August 1962

General de Gaulle survives an attempted assassination at Petit Clamart near Paris. Despite the riddled wheels, the Citroen DS presidential car continued to drive without further damage.

October 1962

In October, at the Paris Motor Show, which is being held for the first time at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center, Citroën unveils the updated DS 19. It features a new front end design and new bumpers that have been developed to improve aerodynamic properties and performance (vehicle speed reaches 160 km / h).

1963

Creation of the sports division of Citroen under the leadership of Rene Cotton.

07 February 1964

Legendary Citroen designer Flaminio Bertoni dies. He was at the forefront of the creation of the legendary DS 19 and Ami 6.

September 1964

Citroen introduces the DS 19 Pallas, a sophisticated vehicle that places great emphasis on interior design and finish.

October 1964

Citroen Ami 6 station wagon

Paris Motor Show: Presentation of the Ami 6 station wagon and a new option for all Citroen cars - seat belts.

December 1964

The 2CV gets new front hinged doors.

September 1965

The arrival of the new DS 21. More powerful, with a new 5-bearing crankshaft engine, the DS 21 also features an automatic headlight range control to compensate for dynamic fluctuations in the vehicle chassis height above the road surface.

January 1965

The last rally for the Citroen DS car driven by Flying Finn Pauli Toivonen ends in victory in Monte Carlo.

July 1967

Between the 2CV and the Ami 6, Citroen is expanding its lineup with the Dyane. This vehicle uses the proven chassis of the 2CV model (425 cc twin, 4-speed gearbox, speed up to 100 km / h and consumption 4.9 liters / 100 km) and a completely new body. With a tailgate and folding rear seats, this car is a sedan with all the benefits of a station wagon.

September 1967

All DS and ID models have been redesigned (fenders, bonnet, bumper, lower fairing, and an optical system of four headlights, two of which swivel in the direction of travel).

January 1968

The Dyane 6 debuts. This car is equipped with a more powerful engine compared to the Ami model (602 cc, 110 km / h and a consumption of 6.1 liters / 100 km).

May 1968

Citroen expands the family of small two-cylinder cars with the Méhari model. An original, universal off-road vehicle. The use of a plastic body eliminates the risk of corrosion and increases resistance to minor impacts.

March 1969

The Ami 8 replaces the Ami 6. This car features a new body design that is simplified and sleeker for improved visibility.

September 1969

Another victory over the competition with the DS 21 marks the first use of an electronically controlled injection system in a French production vehicle. (12 hp, 188 km / h for 10 liters / 100 km).

07 October 1969

Launch of the millionth DS car, the DS 21 with a gold body.

1970

January 1970

Limited edition of 267 pieces. Body based on the Ami 8. 2-door 4-seater coupe. Hydropneumatic suspension. 995cc single rotor piston engine and 4-speed gearbox. The M35 prototype is a true laboratory on wheels. Citroen offers it to its customers who want to test it, with a range of over 30,000 km / year.

March 1970

Citroen SM

Born into the light of an agreement with Maserati in 1968, the sporty and respectable Citroen SM touring car has inherited DS's expertise in all-wheel drive and hydraulic suspension. It is equipped with a Maserati six-cylinder V-engine, a five-speed gearbox and a Diravi electric power steering system. Its dynamic qualities captivate connoisseurs not only in France and Europe, but also in the United States of America.

October 1970

Sitting between the Ami 8 and the DS in Citroen's lineup, the GS unveiled at the Paris Motor Show features a new body that remains the most aerodynamic in the world for years to come. It also features an air-cooled flat-four cylinder engine with hydropneumatic suspension.

1970

With the Paris-Persepolis-Paris Rally, Citroen is giving 1,300 young people from all walks of life an exciting journey behind the wheel of a 2CV, model Dyane or Méhari, 13,800 km long from the outskirts of Paris to southern Iran.

1970

Citroen GS wins Car of the Year 1971

GS car wins Car of the Year award.

April 1971

First participation in competitions, first victory. We are talking about Citroen SM at the rally in Morocco.

September 1972

The DS 23 with a carburetor and electronically controlled injection system replaces the DS 21. It is equipped with a new 2347 cm3 engine (speed up to 188 km / h and consumption 12 liters / 100 km).

February 1973

Super Ami \u003d Ami body + GS 4-cylinder engine.

1974

Merger of Citroen and Peugeot

Michelin and Peugeot group decide to merge Citroen and Peugeot to create a large international company.

March 1974

Market launch of the C35. Commercial vehicle with a payload of 1,885 kg built in conjunction with Fiat.

October 1974

Citroen cx

Citroen CX presented at the Paris Motor Show. Less revolutionary than its predecessor, the DS, which it replaced, the CX combines the company's latest technological advances. The best evidence of this is the transversely mounted engine / gearbox assembly, fixed height hydropneumatic suspension, single-blade wiper, concave taillights and a futuristic instrument panel.

January 1975

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1975)

The CX wins Car of the Year, Safety and Style awards.

24 April 1975

The last DS car comes off the assembly line of the Javel plant. 1,330,755 and the latest is the DS 23 Pallas Bleu Delta with electronically controlled injection.

January 1976

First presentation of the CX utility vehicle.

01 October 1976

The first presentation of the Citroen LN is taking place at the Paris Motor Show. Smallest engine in the range with the smallest body (based on the Peugeot 104 coupe). Air-cooled, 602 cc, twin-cylinder engine, 32 hp, 4-speed gearbox, speed up to 120 km / h and consumption 5.9 liters / 100 km.

1976

CX 2400s take the top 5 spots on the Senegal road trip

April 1977

Presentation of the special limited edition "Dyane Caban" of 1,500 pieces.

May 1977

CX 2400 GTI: electronically controlled injection system, 2,347 cc engine, 128 hp, top speed 189 km / h and consumption 8.1 liters / 100 km.

February 1978

Introduction of the CX Prestige, featuring a 25 cm longer body.

March 1978

The Acadiane, a new small commercial vehicle based on the Dyane, replaces the 2CV. Engine with a volume of 602 cm3, 31 hp. and speeds up to 100 km / h.

October 1978

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents two new products: the LNA model, which replaced the LN, and the Visa model. These new vehicles are equipped with AEI (Electronic Ignition System) - the first in the world to have this system installed on a production vehicle.

May 1979

Méhari all-wheel drive model

Launch of the Méhari 4x4 model. This model is equipped with a 7-speed gearbox (4 normal and 3 transfer) and a gear reverse gear.

1980

October 1980

The 2CV gets a two-tone body and round headlights with the introduction of the 2CV Charleston. Originally envisioned as a limited edition of 8,000 copies, the 2CV Charleston has enjoyed overwhelming success, leading to the launch of this model in series production in 1981.

March 1981

The Visa is replaced by the Visa II with a new body and a more efficient engine.

May 1981

Citroen launches new C25 commercial vehicle, co-produced with Peugeot and Fiat.

July 1982

Occupying the top positions of the Visa model range, the Visa GT replaces the Visa II Super X. It is equipped with a 1,360 cm3 80 hp engine, reaches a speed of 168 km / h and a consumption of 5.6 liters / 100 km.

September 1982

Presentation of the production model BX, designed to win new customers. It is a 5-door and 5-seater hatchback that sits between the GSA and CX in the model range. It comes with 3 engines to choose from: 1,360 cc and 62 hp with 4-speed gearbox, 1,360 cc and 72 hp with 5-speed gearbox and 1,580 displacement and 90 hp with 5-speed gearbox gear.

February 1983

Launch of the Visa convertible: the roof with flexible rear window can be folded completely or only at the front.

July 1983

From this date, all Citroen production vehicles are equipped with a laminated windshield.

1983

Citroen is launching a women's racing series with Michelin, with 11 finalists selected out of 6,000 candidates. 6 tests were carried out and only 2 of the finalists became factory testers.

September 1984

Launch of the BX 19 GT, equipped with an on-board computer and a 1,905 cm3 (185 km / h) engine.

October 1984

Citroen CX 25 GTi Turbo

CX 25 GTi Turbo: Highest performance in its category. 2,500 cc engine with electronically controlled injection and turbocharger, 168 hp, speed up to 220 km / h.

October 1984

The C15 E (gasoline engine) and C15 D (diesel engine) are two small commercial vehicles with a payload of 570 kg, based on the Visa model.

January 1985

Launch of the Visa GTi model. 1,580 cc engine with electronically controlled injection, 105 hp and a 5-speed gearbox allows the car to reach speeds of up to 188 km / h.

1985 March

October 1986

//

Citroen unveils the AX at the Paris Motor Show. Front-wheel drive 3-door hatchback with a drag coefficient of 0.31. It is equipped with a completely new transversely vertically mounted transmission.

1987

Citroen AX enters the small sports car market, first in March with the AX Sport and then in October with the AX GT. This model takes part in the Moroccan Rally and the Monte Carlo Rally.

January 1987

From now on, Citroen provides a 5-year anti-corrosion warranty on all models.

July 1987

Presentation of the new BX 19 GTi with the first French 16-valve engine (4 cylinders, 1,905 cm3, 164 hp, top speed 218 km / h).

July 1988

Operation Dragon

Operation "Dragon". 140 young drivers from all over Europe make a rally over 4,500 km across China in a Citroen AX between Shenzhen and Beijing.

October 1988

Citroen presents the "Activa" at the Paris International Motor Show. It is an experimental prototype that has served as the basis for the development of projects such as the development of four-wheel drive and electronically controlled suspension.

December 1988

The AX Sport Turbo takes 7 podiums out of 10 in the French Super Manufacturers Championship.

February 1989

Two new all-wheel drive BX models launched at dealerships: the BX 4x4 and the BX 4x4 Evasion. Their all-wheel drive includes the following 3 differentials: front, center with locking and rear with limited slip.

23 May 1989

Citroen adds a new model to its lineup: the Xm. This is a serial liftback designed by Bertone, the world's first suspension system that combines electronic control with the power and flexibility of hydraulics. The moment of birth of the Hydractive suspension.

1990

1990

Citroen XM wins Car of the Year award

The Xm wins Car of the Year and 14 international awards.

27 July 1990

After the release of 5,114,940 copies, production of 2CV cars was ceremoniously stopped at the plant in Mangualdi (Portugal). The car quickly became popular with collectors.

October 1990

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen once again showcases its technological advancements. The electric cars C15 and C25 sit next to the working prototype of the Activa 2, a real star of the interior. The Activa 2 is powered by a 200 hp, 24-valve, three-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, active lateral control and a 5-function screen.

17 January 1991

ZX Rallye raid driven by Ari Vatanen wins 13th victory in Paris-Tripoli-Dakar (9,186 km)

1991 March

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1991)

Citroen unveils the ZX at the Geneva Motor Show. It will be launched as a "collection" of 4 models (Reflex, Avantage, Aura and Volcane), which sit between the AX and BX in the range. The ZX is the first European car with a reclining sliding back seat.

20 April 1992

The Citroen Citela electric car prototype is the main focus of the French Pavilion at the Seville World Exhibition.

29 September 1992

60 years after the Yellow Raid, the crew of Pierre Lartigue / Michel Peren takes part in the Paris-Moscow-Beijing rally 16,000 km long and wins first place in a Citroen ZX Rallye Raid.

01 March 1993

Sales of the Xantia, a 5-door sedan, 4.44 m long, co-produced by Citroen and Bertone atelier. The Xantia model implements all the company's technological achievements not only in order to set new industry standards in driving comfort, but also to equip the car with a powerful passive safety system (Hydractive 2)

21 September 1993

Launch of the 2,000,000th AX at the Aulnay-sous-bois plant.

14 January 1994

The first presentation of the Citroen Jumper on the occasion of the opening of the commercial vehicle showroom in Geneva. The product of collaboration with Peugeot and Fiat, Citroen Jumper is extremely attractive: looks, new gasoline and diesel engines, new transmissions.

March 1994

Citroen Evasion presentation at the Geneva Motor Show. It combines all the qualities of an executive sedan in terms of handling, comfort, road behavior and safety.

October 1994

The Xantia Activa, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, is the first vehicle in the world to change the ride height thanks to its active SC.CAR transverse control system. It is also equipped with additional features such as a driver's airbag, electrically operated rear power windows and, finally, adjustable backrests.

February 1995

Launch of the millionth ZX at the Onet-sous-Bois (Olney) plant.

15 September 1995

Transport exhibition. Citroen presents the Jumpy, a compact and versatile commercial vehicle (payload 815 kg and useful volume 4 m3).

November 1995

Citroen AX Electrique debuts on the market. Power: 20 kW. Maximum speed: 91 km / h. Autonomy: 75 km within the city limits. Available in 3-door / 4-seater hatchback and 2-seater commercial vehicle versions.

02 November 1995

1996

The Saxo Cup replaces the Coupe AX.

1996

In 8 months, the Onet-sous-Bois (Olney) plant produced 100,000 Saxo vehicles.

July 1996

Commercial realization of the Citroen Berlingo car. Despite the fact that the style of the Berlingo is more like a sedan than a commercial vehicle, its useful volume is 3m3 with a payload of 800 kg.

September 1996

Minivan Citroen Berlingo

The first appearance of the Berlingo minivan, practical and comfortable, the start of sales of which is scheduled for early 1997.

22 August 1997

International PR company for young Europeans from 18 to 35 years old: Rally in a Citroen Berlingo on the route Paris-Samarkand-Moscow.

11 September 1997

Citroen Xsara (4.17 m) joins the lineup, placing itself between Saxo (3.72 m) and Xantia (4.52 m). The next generation symbol at the top of the lineup, Xsara showcases the company's leadership in comfort, safety and on-road behavior.

06 February 1998

At the retro car show, Citroen is showing three unique pre-war 2CVs, produced in accordance with 1939 certification.

25 March 1998

The 500,000th Saxo vehicle leaves the assembly line under the patronage of the sculptor Cesar.

October 1998

Concept car Citroen C3 "Lumière"

Citroen looks to the future with the C3 Lumière concept car, which serves as the prototype for the new model. It features an innovative and versatile architecture in terms of functionality and interior layout.

October 1998

Centenary of the Paris Motor Show. Citroen unveils the Xsara Picasso, a compact vehicle that combines monocab and hatchback features with an original and innovative design.

1998

1 million de Citroën Xantia & Citroën Saxo produites

The millionth Xantia is produced at the Rennes-la-Janais plant, and the millionth Saxo is produced from the assembly line at the Aulnay-sous-bois plant.

11 March 1999

Concept car Citroen C6 "Lignage"

"The Art of Traveling with Citroen" or the presentation of the C6 Lignage at the Geneva Motor Show. The C6 Lignage illustrates the architectural and design possibilities of the company's upcoming executive model. At the same Citroen stand, the visitor can also linger at the "Pluriel" exhibition sample, an original model that does not fit into any traditional segment.

2000

1999

Construction of the Citroen Museum in Onet-sous-Bois (Olney). This 6,700 m2 building was built with the aim of preserving the Citroen models produced since the company was founded and preserved to this day. Its opening is scheduled for November 28, 2001.

02 March 2000

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (2000)

Citroen C3 Pluriel presentation at the Geneva Motor Show.

30 September 2000

Status, power, dynamism, endurance. Citroen unveils the C5 at the Paris Motor Show. To bridge the gap between pedestrians and cyclists, the company is also unveiling the Osmose concept car, aimed primarily at urban use. The car of the future, sociable and open. It will then be exhibited at the Georges Pompidou Center.

2001

Citroen's young hope, Sebastian Loeb and his co-driver Daniel Helena won the French Championship in an Xsara KitCar. The same crew became the Junior World Rally Champion in a Saxo Super 1600.

2001 September

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Citroen unveils the C3 and introduces the C-Crosser concept car: 3-seat front, movable driver's seat (three-position left, center and right) electronically controlled ("x-by- wire "), lack of a steering column. It is a versatile vehicle that combines adventure, freedom and comfort.

07 March 2002

At the Geneva Motor Show, Citroen unveils the C8, a car for traveling with family or friends, where everything is thought out to the smallest detail.

25 August 2002

Loeb and Elena's first world victory

At the stage of the World Rally Championship in Germany, the young Loeb / Helena crew won their first victory.

28 September 2002

C-Airdream is the company's new concept car. This 2 + 2 coupe, unveiled at the Paris International Motor Show, is an opportunity for the company to continue its design developments further.

06 March 2003

Geneva Motor Show, presentation of the C2 Citroen Sport concept car. A joint development product of the Concept Cars Division and Citroen Sport.

08 September 2003

In Frankfurt, Citroen confirms its intentions with the production of the C2, a fine example of a small compact 3-door sedan for 4 people. Another star of the German showroom is the C-Airlounge concept car, which once again showcases the company's creativity.

08 November 2003

After 13 podiums, Citroën wins the 2003 World Rally Championship. Sebastian Loeb is second in the driver's category.

2004

Launch of the millionth Xsara Picasso.

25 September 2004

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën is showcasing new products: the C4 hatchback and coupe, the new C5 sedan and C5 station wagon, and the C3 with Stop & Start, designed to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

17 October 2004

Sebastian Loeb - World Rally Champion

At the end of the rally in Corsica and without waiting for the end of the championship, Citroen wins the second world title in the constructors' championship. Sebastian Loeb, finishing second in the race, earns his first World Rally Championship title.

October 2005

First world presentation of the C-Sportlounge concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

08 October 2005

50th anniversary of the DS model. 1,600 DS cars take part in the Citroën birthday parade in Paris.

18 February 2006

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (2006)

Citroen creates C-Triomphe concept car for China

06 September 2006

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen unveils a new concept car that combines passion and practicality. The C-Métisse showcases new options designed exclusively for driving pleasure.

30 September 2006

Launch of the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, which is positioned above the Xsara Picasso in the model range.

March 2007

Citroen is unveiling the C-Crosser at the Geneva Motor Show, which is slated for market launch in July. The first SUV of the company, designed for 5 + 2 seats, is characterized by high cross-country ability due to its dimensions and all-wheel drive.

27 September 2007

The company is completing its work on the preparation of the exhibition hall at 42 Champs Elysees. Inauguration of the exhibition hall C_42. For 6 months, this iconic place receives more than 1 million visitors.

18 October 2007

Citroen unveils the C5 Airscape concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show, a large convertible sedan that heralds the arrival of the new C5 in the near future.

15 January 2008

At the Brussels Motor Show, the company presents the new Citroen C5. The designers started their work from scratch to create a new generation car.

08 July 2008

The Picasso family joins the Citroen C3 Picasso, an innovative car that is characterized by daring style, innovative architecture and ingenuity.

10 September 2008

In the family car category of the company, the Citroen Némo Combi appears next to the Berlingo Multispace. Among other things, it is characterized by its compact external dimensions (3.96 m in length) and a spacious interior

October 2008

The motto of the Citroen booth at the 2008 Paris International Salon is Innovation, Sustainability and Creativity. In total, at least 34 cars, 11 new models and 8 concept cars are on display. Of note are the GTbyCitroen, 2CV Hermes, C-Cactus and Hypnos concept cars, as well as the Citroen C3 Pluriel Charleston, a hint of history.

Citroen C Quatre, a three-compartment car at the Shanghai Auto Show

Citroen is expanding its lineup in China and is unveiling two new vehicles at the Shanghai International Auto Show: the C-Quatre sedan and the new C5, which will be built in Wuhan.

October 2009

Révolte (Riot). With this self-explanatory name given to the latest concept car, Citroen shows how courage and progress are inherent in the company. This is a small urban super-elegant car that combines luxury with audacity.

October 2009

First showroom for the presentation of the new Citroen C3 in Frankfurt. Citroen is pursuing an ambitious goal: to update the bestseller with over 2 million copies.

2010

14 January 2010

88th Brussels Motor Show. The company presents its new Citroen C-Zéro compact car. Thus, Citroen is expanding its presence in the small car segment by offering a 100% electric vehicle to facilitate mobility in urban areas.

18 January 2010

About a year after the presentation of DS Inside (Geneva 2009), Citroen unveils the DS3 and opens the new DS line, announced a year earlier. This line of special vehicles, created with the most radical solutions, complements the main range.

02 March 2010

Citroen unveils the Survolt at the Geneva Motor Show: destroying stereotypes and exciting the imagination. The company continues to move towards the development of electric car models, special and extraordinary, already brought to life with the release of the Revolte concept car a few months earlier.

18 April 2010

Metropolis concept car

Citroen unveils the Métropolis on the eve of the Shanghai showroom opening. The first concept car developed by the Shanghai Design Center, which was launched in 2008. This concept car will be on display at the Beijing Motor Show in October, as well as at the French Pavilion of the Shanghai World Expo

23 August 2010

Citroen Racing engineers are working on the DS3 Sport Chic to improve performance and performance. Redesigned engine, steering, chassis and new name - DS3 Racing.

15 September 2010

As with the new Citroen C5 launched in 2008 and the C3 launched in 2009, the new Citroen C4 showcases the company's innovations and technologies that are used in the future refresh of the main lineup.

30 September 2010

Citroen unveils the concept car Citroen Lacoste at the Paris International Exhibition, the car of the future. This is a new image of the car that resists the stereotype of "more and more" and calls for a measured approach to life.

01 March 2011

Launch of the Citroen DS4. This 2nd car in the DS line features a new shape of the raised 4-door coupe that combines dynamism and versatility to create a new driving experience.

01 March 2011

Citroen Multicity launch

Citroen becomes the first car company to offer the Multicity service, which covers all modes of transport, making travel much easier: www.multicity.citroen.fr.

18 April 2011

Following the Citroen DS3 and DS4 models, the Company presents the DS5 model in Shanghai. Slender and bold, the Citroen DS5 fits perfectly into the DS line, while differentiating itself with its architecture, feel, style and sophistication.

27 July 2011

19th Citroen 2CV World Friends Meeting. On the anniversary of the end of production of the 2CV, more than 20,000 enthusiasts gather around 7,000 examples of this legendary car and its modifications (Ami 6 and 8, Dyane, Méhari ...)

September 2011

64th Motor Show in Frankfurt. With its Tubik concept car, which is similar to the Type H cars from the future, Citroen expresses its vision of tomorrow's mobility, where the journey is as important as the destination. Tubik's challenge is to create a 9-seater vehicle that, in terms of design and equipment, is as good as a modern sedan.

24 October 2011

With 70 Facebook communities, Citroen has over a million fans around the world.

11 February 2012

Eighty years after the Yellow Raid Expedition, Xavier and Antonin, two ground engineers, set off on their first trip around the world in an electric Citroen C-Zéro. 8 months, 25,000 kilometers, 17 countries for 250 euros in electricity bills!

01 April 2012

Citroen is expanding its range with the C4 Aircross. In a rapidly growing segment with this new model, Citroen is aiming to utilize the traditional compact SUV design, combining innovative technology and contemporary design.

13 April 2012

Citroen Numero 9

Numero 9 (Number 9) is the name of the latest development of the company. It is a concept car, a new expression of the DS line, which reiterates the familiar, prestigious silhouette known in automotive history: the station wagon

June 2012

Increased pace of expansion: Citroen launches Citroen C4 Sedan and C-Elysée models one after another. These two saloons, consisting of three sections, are intended in particular for the rapidly developing world markets such as the Mediterranean countries, China and Russia.

October 2012

Citroen begins taking orders for the new DS3 Cabrio at the Paris International Motor Show. This convertible version of the Citroen DS3 combines all the advantages of the base version (design, driving feel and capacity) with the pleasure of driving a convertible. The roof can be opened at speeds up to 120 km / h.

Up

Citroen was founded in 1919 in France. Its founder was the engineer and entrepreneur Andre Gustave Citroen. The plant created inexpensive machines for a wide range of users. The first name of the company was "AO Citroen".

As a rule, historical and iconic brands can be found among car brands. Both terms are applicable to Citroen - its products combined the quality brands traditional for cars, at the same time developing, outstripping competitors. Vehicles of this brand have served not only the people, but also the government of France for decades. Drivers call Citroen cars "sent from above."

Citroen makes cars available to a wide range of motorists

Founder biography

Frenchman André Citroën was born in 1878. His father, Levi Citroen, was an entrepreneur. He processed precious stones, subsequently selling them. The business was developing successfully - there was enough money to support the family. Yet Levy did not feel influential enough in his field. Andre was 6 years old when the father of the family took his own life. As an inheritance, the father of the family left a large fortune, as well as, no less important, ties with industrial and financial figures in Paris. In the 19th century, a tradition was developed according to which the sons continued to run the family business, but the young Citroen was more interested in technology, including cars.

After graduating from the polytechnic school, Andre got a job with his friends in the workshop. So, at 23, he became a specialist in the production of parts for locomotives. After four years at the firm, he invests all the remaining inheritance in the company's securities and becomes a co-owner of the Estenov business.

While in Poland, André drew attention to a small factory where an unknown self-taught mechanic, among other units, invented gears. Citroen realized that this technology would be promising, so he decided to acquire a patent for its implementation. Continuing his career in the Estenov business, Andre sets up the creation of gears at their plant. This technology was much more advanced than the products of the company's competitors. The new level of production allowed the business to acquire customers outside France in a short time. This brought the business serious profits.

Around the same time, the company developed what the French call the "double chevron". In appearance, it looks like two inverted letters "V", which schematically conveys the image of the tapered ends of the gears.

In the company Andre was engaged not only in commercial activities, but also took on the duties of the technical director. In a short time, he got rid of all competitors - rapidly developing technologies have left no equal in the market. Citroen gained an excellent reputation, which was noticed by the managers of the Mors plant. They invited him to the post of technical director. Andre accepted the application, after which the Mors level began to rise.

During the First World War, Citroen did not stop realizing his entrepreneurial plans. He realized that the French army was short of ammunition at the front. In this regard, André offers the Minister of War a deal, according to which a plant for the production of shells will be created. The large-scale project had to be completed in just three months - there was little time. After much deliberation, the state agreed to work with Citroen, providing it with financing in the form of 20% of the amount that was needed for the construction. The remaining 80% of the funds Andre borrowed from workers in various industries.

Indeed, in three months on the empty banks of the Seine River a large factory was set up, which produced more ammunition than all the French enterprises combined. Citroën saw the high level of organization as the reason for its success.

Creation of the car brand Citroen

After the end of the First World War, production at André's factory ceased. He decided how to use the production facilities - a professional team, premises, machines and his own experience, as well as the proceeds from the shells. One of the most promising areas was the production of transport. Citroen was intimately familiar with cars, so he decided to invest money and time.

Andre's first idea was to create a complex and technologically advanced 18-horsepower car. Later, under the influence of the principle of production he saw at the Henry Ford plant in America, he decided that more success could be achieved by focusing on the mass market. In 1919, with the help of the French designer Jules Solomon (creator of the La Zebre car), he set about creating cars at his factory. Production began with one test model, but the more they grew, the more cars were considered a mass commodity rather than an outlandish technique.

The first Citroen car

The first model was called Citroen A. It had a volume of 1.3 liters and had a power of 10 horsepower, developing a speed of 65 km / h. The first model in Europe had an electric starter and lighting. Small cars were in great demand - with the production of 100 copies a day, the plant still did not have time to supply everyone with cars. The Type A was priced at 7,950 francs - available at the time. No competitor company could offer motorists the same low price, which inevitably led Citroen to success. They received over 16,000 purchase requisitions in two weeks.

In the same 1919, the company was negotiating the sale of the Citroen brand to General Motors. Both sides agreed, but the deal did not materialize, as the Americans considered such an acquisition too heavy a burden on the budget.

Thus, at 41, André marked the beginning of the transport revolution in France. In order to delve deeper into the technology of car production, as well as to peep the principles of competitors' work, Andre Citroen secretly disassembled American models of cars that were popular at that time at his plant. Among them were Buick, Nash, and Studebreaker. For four years of work, Citroen has developed production, producing 300 cars a day.

By the end of the 1920s, the company had representative centers in every major country in Europe. To make it more convenient for Citroen drivers to service their cars, aggregate warehouses were built throughout France. In 1921, over 3,000 models were exported.

Meanwhile, the company has developed a new runabout called the 5CV. This simple and reliable car has received the status of "people's". He drove well on dirt roads. Without front brakes, the car was equipped with front and rear springs. A few years later, the model was updated to versions B12 and B14. The models have been sold for over 135 thousand euros in 2 years. They have increased the popularity of Citroën.

Further development, difficulties and death of Andre

In 1931, the company introduced a new model - Citroen Grand Lux. This car has become a premium brand. It was equipped with a 2.7-liter engine, which was a real revolution in the mechanical engineering market in France. By 1933, Citroën had taken the first place among all car factories in Europe, ahead of the Italian Fiat. In the same year, production reached 1,100 vehicles per day.

In 1934, the demand for Citroen cars fell. This turned out to be a real shock for the company, because quite recently it showed positive dynamics. By that time, all the brand's assets were allocated to the creation of new service centers and factories, so the company was close to bankruptcy. The global financial crisis has become a separate factor. A bankruptcy procedure was initiated, after two months of which the Michelin manufacturer acquired 60% of Citroen's shares. So, the company managed to remain independent from 1919 until that time.

André didn’t see the revolutionary concept of a front-wheel drive car. This technology Citroen adheres to this day. The founder of the great company died in 1935. French journalists circulated three versions that influenced Andre's death: an incurable illness, financial difficulties and the death of his daughter. The contribution to the development of the automotive industry, which the entrepreneur made over 26 years in the field of vehicles, immortalized his name in history.

Over the years, Citroen created a new car. The SM was made in collaboration with Maserati and had a 170 hp engine. from. with 6 valves. The model was equipped with disc brakes on wheels on both axles and air suspension. This is how SM earned its position among the best coupes in the GT class.

Over time, Andre's idea became a reality - the company paid more and more attention to the production of high-tech, but expensive models. Such cars were original and had almost no competitors in the whole world. The founder himself believed that with a good idea of \u200b\u200bthe car, its price does not matter. Unfortunately, extravagant cars did not generate much income - most of the drivers were working class. The situation was aggravated by the oil crisis, which seriously undermined the sales of fuel-demanding Citroen. The brand had to join the mass market, otherwise they were threatened with ruin. The image of innovators has been lost for years.

In 1974, Citroen teamed up with the Peugeot automobile concern, pursuing pragmatic goals. This finally deprived the company of the title of a technology revolutionary, because now the products were regulated by the interests of two factories. Otherwise, such cooperation allowed Citroen to survive the crisis.

Only by the beginning of the 90s, the brand was again able to "leave" on originality. The trend for unusual cars again went around the world, which allowed the extravagant Citroen models to win the respect of the public again. One of the most important stages of the company's revival in the market was the decision of the director: he concentrated the plant's efforts on the development of various designs for each line of cars. Thus, each series received an appearance that was very different from any other. The new XM model has an excellent chassis system and elegant design.

Citroen's current market position

In the first half of the nineties, the company produced the Santia, Berlingo and Saxo models. In parallel with this, a series of cars for sports competitions were being prepared. Work on different directions yielded results: models C4, C3 and C5 came out, which belonged to the European system.

In 2004, Sébastien Loeb, a racing driver from France, won the WRC racing tournament. He was driving the Casar model. Then Sebastian confirmed his status several times, but at C4, C3 and DS3. Taking part in 12 races and winning 9 of them, the driver set the record for wins in the entire history of the WRC, representing his country and Citroen.

French driver wins WRC race in Citroen

Given the success in the sports car segment, the company has released sports modifications to many of its models. In 2007, the company's first crossover was released, which was created on the basis of the Mitsubishi Outlander. In 2011, another model came out, which took a high place in sales in the French market.

Citroën relied on original design. The development of the cars was supported by Peugeot, so the company was able to reduce the cost of updates. So, in 2013, the five-seater Picasso came out. In 2014, a new version of it appeared - C4 Grand C4 Picasso. The car had seven seats, including the driver's. The model had not only a special appearance, but also a wide electronic functionality and good environmental performance. By 2014, the line has collected more than 65,000 applications with orders - the models have become popular all over the world, mainly with large families.

Advertising moves André

As a seasoned entrepreneur, Citroen understood that making cars and selling them were two completely different tasks. So, the growing pace of assembly (60 thousand copies in 1925 and 100 thousand in 1929) needed an implementation scheme. Andre's first project was the release of toy Citroen models, which were miniature copies of real cars. In order to increase brand awareness and be in public view, André ordered road signs with the Citroen symbol - a double chevron - for the city transport services.

Thus, a significant part of the budget of the automobile company was constantly in advertising circulation. One of the projects was an "advertising run" - drivers equipped for a trip went on long routes, to
loudspeaker telling the townspeople about the benefits of their company's products. During stops, they made presentations to citizens and held lotteries. André was convinced that a live car demo was the best way to get potential buyers interested. Practice shows that from 3 to 15% of eyewitnesses of the races went home in a newly purchased Citroen.

Back in 1929, Andre created an exhibition hall with a height of six tiers, one of the walls of which was a 21 x 10 meter showcase, entirely made of glass. This design attracted many visitors who could see all the available cars of the firm in one place. André also provided loans on favorable terms for motorists and guided tours of the production facilities.

Once an enterprising businessman heard about an English pilot who, using his plane, painted various images and words in the sky. André decided that his company also needed a similar service. He told the pilot to leave a white trail in the sky in the form of "Citroen". Despite the fact that the inscription remained in the air for a few minutes, word of the car brand spread throughout the world. The huge investment in the pilot's pay quickly paid off.

One of Andre's most massive projects was the idea of \u200b\u200bthe Eiffel Tower. It contained more than 125,000 light bulbs, which, when various levers were turned on, formed ten pictures, among which was the name of an automobile company. Both Parisians and tourists alike - everyone loved this installation.

The campaign, in which Citroen supplied cars for racing events such as races in the Sahara and Asia, as well as parcels with gramophone recordings of audio commercials for cars, all this made it possible by 1934 to take the first place in Europe and second in the world in the field of mechanical engineering.

Andre was constantly in debt to various financiers. His projects were risky, but in most cases paid off, after which Citroen started a new advertising campaign. One of the projects, though related to the construction of more services and factories, turned out to be critical in the history of the company. A serious financial crisis deprived Andre of almost all funds. Many attempts to attract material support failed, after which Citroen went bankrupt.

Conclusion

André's work has become a vivid example of the fact that devotion to what he loves can create a real revolution in one or another area of \u200b\u200blife. Of course, he would not have succeeded without the ability to make decisions on time, as well as develop advertising campaigns. Citroen cars in our time are known for their originality and wide functionality - factors that Andre himself did not have time to implement.

In 1919, Citroen was founded, one of the largest automobile companies in Europe. The first model of the brand became one of the most popular cars of the 20th century. The compact Citroen A was equipped with a 1.3-liter power unit with a capacity of 18 horsepower. The combination of a light body, a powerful and reliable engine, as well as a low price of the model, ensured the great popularity of Citroen cars.

After the first success, the brand began to create several cars at once, the founder of the company André Citroën was fascinated by the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating a car that could become a platform for creating several models. At the same time, the production of Model A exceeded one hundred copies per day. However, in 1921, the Citroën 5 CV Trefle was introduced, which timely replaced the Model A, as its sales rate gradually fell.

In parallel with this, it was André Citroën who became the first in the world to apply PR solutions in the automotive field, which led to the brand gaining popularity far beyond France. By the end of the 20s, Citroen had offices in all major European countries.

In 1929, two models were presented at once - B12 and B14, which won the title of the most comfortable cars of their time. This was confirmed by the sales of Citroen cars, which sold 135 thousand in just two years of production. And in 1931, the next model, Citroen Grand Lux, was presented, which became the company's first premium car. The car was equipped with a 2.7-liter power unit, revolutionary for the European market, with a capacity of 53 horsepower. By 1933, Citroën, under André's leadership, had become the largest car manufacturer on the continent, surpassing the Italian FIAT and bringing car production to 1,100 units per day.

However, already in 1934, the demand for cars of the Citroen company unexpectedly dropped, which by that time had invested all its assets in the creation of new factories and technology centers, thus the company was on the verge of bankruptcy. One of the reasons for such a rapid collapse was the global economic crisis. Two months after the start of the bankruptcy procedure, 60% of the shares were bought by Michelin, a rubber manufacturer.

A few months later, the founder of the company, Andre Citroen, dies. Nevertheless, the heirs of the legend of the automotive industry, tried to rectify the situation, which took them two decades. In 1955, the Citroen DS model was introduced, which became very popular in the automotive market in France and Italy. For the first time, the company was able to make a profit, which has not happened for more than twenty years. However, the period from 1955 to 1969 was not successful for Citroen. In 1976, the Citroen brand became part of the then largest car maker in France - Peugeot.

In the first half of the 90s of the twentieth century, the brand "Citroen" releases such models as Santia, Saxo and Berlingo, gradually regaining their former greatness. In addition, active preparations have begun for participation in several racing series. At the same time, several models of different classes are born at once. The first of these was the Citroen C4 model, belonging to the compact C class according to the European classification, followed by the C3 - B class, and the C5 - D class.

In 2004, just two years after starting the World Rally Championship, French driver Sebastien Loeb, at the wheel of Citroën Casara, becomes the winner of the general classification. This was followed by his victories on cars C4, C3 and DS3, bringing the total win to 9. Thus, taking part in 12 championship seasons, was the record for the most victories in the history of the WRC.

The lineup of the company, against the backdrop of successes in car competitions, was replenished with sports versions of famous models, and in 2007, the first Citroen crossover, built on the Mitsubishi Outlander platform, was presented. In 2011, another compact crossover model was introduced, which became one of the most popular cars in the French market for 2012.

The new direction of the company was the creation of a unique design. Due to the fact that all technological developments were carried out jointly with Peugeot, they did not require colossal investments.

In 2013, the Citroën C4 Picasso (five-seater version) was released, which soon, already in 2014, acquired the “older brother” Citroën Grand C4 Picasso with increased capacity (by seven seats). The modernized version was a real leap forward and gave all subsequent models a completely new and sophisticated design. The car is designed on the EMP2 platform, thanks to which the drivers of the novelty have reduced the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. This model was distinguished not only by its perfect appearance, but also by the introduction of a huge number of modern technologies. For example, a convenient touchscreen display that allows you to control all onboard systems.

It is worth noting that the 2013 and 2014 versions were able to collect more than 65 thousand orders. Cars began to be in great demand among large families.